It’s time for the next installment of  “Happier with Gretchen Rubin.”

Four Tendencies: Listener Questions & Observations

This episode is a round-up of listener questions and observations about the Four Tendencies. If you need a quick reminder about the definition of Upholders, Questioners, Obligers, and Rebels, you can find it here, as well as the free online Quiz.

Try This at Home

Reach out to other members of your Tendency, to talk about possible strategies to manage the limitations of your Tendency–and also to compare notes about how you see the world.

Four Tendencies Mottos

Yowza, I loved hearing the mottoes that people suggested for the Four Tendencies. Brilliant.

Listener Questions and Insights

“Rebels learn best when they experience the consequences of their decisions, so you may have to allow your Rebel child to suffer the consequences of their actions.”

“How can a family of Upholders get along with Rebel?”

Here’s one I found particularly fascinating: “It seems like Questioners don’t like to be questioned. Have you noticed this?” I hadn’t — but in fact, my husband is a Questioner, and he hates to answer questions. Has anyone else noticed this?

“I’m a personal trainer. What are your favorite examples, specific to each Tendency, about eating higher quality food?”

Gretchen’s Demerit

I forgot to tell my husband that I was leaving early for Philadelphia until late the night before.

Elizabeth’s Gold Star

Elizabeth gives herself a gold star for planning a friends’ weekend away.